SKILLS REQUIRED TO ADVANCE TO INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

In order to advance to the Intermediate class, your dog should be able to regularly perform the following exercises:

1. Dog can sit politely for petting. Handler can talk to his/her dog and use gentle restraint while the instructor or a stranger gently and briefly pets him.

2. The dog is regularly under control in class.

3.The dog can walk attentively at the handler’s side on a pre-plotted course including a left turn, a right turn,and an about turn. He need not be perfectly aligned with the handler and need not sit automatically when the handler stops.

4. The dog must respond to the sit and down commands both at the handler's side and in the front position. The handler may use signals/gestures and repeat a command within reason. No food luring is allowed for this test.

5. The dog should be able to stay in place for at least 20 seconds in both the sit and down position while the handler is at the end of a 6-foot leash.

6. The dog should respond to the come command in controlled situations. For purposes of this test, the handler will heel forward and then upon instruction back up and call the dog. The dog should respond quickly,and happily return to the handler.